At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support initiatives to improve outcomes for autistic individuals.
- Company: Join Autistica, the UK's leading autism research and campaigning charity.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while working with passionate individuals.
- Other info: Flexible time commitment with opportunities for personal growth and influence.
- Why this job: Shape a future where every autistic person can thrive through strategic leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, fundraising, or relevant expertise is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Creating breakthroughs for a world where every autistic person can thrive. Autistica is the UK’s leading autism research and campaigning charity. Our vision is a world where every autistic person can live the life they choose - supported by science, shaped by understanding, and enabled by systems that work better for them. Yet too many autistic people continue to face persistent inequalities across health, education and employment, with delayed diagnosis, inconsistent support, and systems not designed with autistic needs in mind. We are changing this. Through world-class research, collaboration with autistic people and families, and growing influence across policy and practice, we are turning evidence into action and delivering breakthroughs that improve lives.
As we enter an exciting new phase of growth and impact, we are seeking a new Chair and a Trustee to join our Board.
ChairWe are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader who is motivated by the opportunity to create lasting change for autistic people. The successful candidate will share our belief that better outcomes are achieved through evidence, collaboration and long-term systems change, and will be excited by Autistica’s ambition to build a world where every autistic person can thrive. Working closely with the Board and our new Chief Executive, the Chair will provide leadership, support and constructive challenge, helping to guide the organisation through its next phase of growth and influence. The ideal candidate will bring senior leadership and Board-level experience, strong governance and financial oversight skills, and the credibility to engage confidently with major donors, policymakers, research leaders and strategic partners. Experience of fundraising, stakeholder engagement or building influential partnerships would be advantageous. Above all, we are looking for someone who is deeply committed to our mission and excited by the opportunity to help drive meaningful, lasting change. The time commitment for Chair is 2-3 days a month.
TrusteeWe are also seeking a new Trustee to join our Board. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our commitment to improving outcomes for autistic people. We particularly encourage applications from neurodivergent individuals and from those who can bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- PR, media and communications
- Business leadership
- Technology and digital innovation
- Fundraising and income generation
As a Trustee, you will contribute to the strategic direction and governance of the charity, helping to ensure that Autistica continues to deliver impact, grow its influence and achieve its ambitious goals. This is an opportunity to bring your expertise to a mission-driven organisation and help shape a future where autistic people can thrive. The time commitment for Trustee is 1 day a month.
To apply, please click on the Apply button, where you can submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and person specification. Please quote reference 8518. Please highlight whether you are applying for the Chair or Trustee position. The deadline for applications is 23:59 BST Sunday, 26th July 2026.
Join us in shaping a future where understanding leads to action, and where every autistic person can thrive.
Chair and Trustee employer: Perrett Laver
Autistica is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a world where every autistic person can thrive. With a strong commitment to evidence-based change, our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and inclusivity, providing employees with meaningful opportunities to contribute to impactful research and advocacy. Located in the heart of the UK, we offer a supportive environment that values diverse perspectives, ensuring that every team member can grow and make a difference in the lives of autistic individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair and Trustee
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair and Trustee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Perrett Laver, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Perrett Laver.
How to prepare for a job interview at Perrett Laver
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Perrett Laver and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
